Hot Spinach And Bacon
A quick, flavorful side combining crispy bacon, tender spinach, and a tangy onion-vinegar-sugar glaze, perfect for breakfast or a healthy accompaniment for any meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place bacon in a 3-quart microproof casserole and cover with paper towels.
- Cook on High for 2 minutes or until crisp.
- Remove bacon, drain, cool, and crumble.
- Drain all but 1 tablespoon of drippings from the casserole.
- Add chopped onion to the casserole.
- Cover and cook on High for 1 1/2 minutes or until onion is transparent.
- Stir in vinegar and sugar.
- Add spinach and mix lightly.
- Cover and cook on High for 6 to 7 minutes or until spinach is tender, stirring once during cooking.
- Drain the spinach.
- Sprinkle with crumbled bacon and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try using applewood smoked bacon instead of regular bacon. If you're looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can also work. If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions. Ensure to wash the spinach thoroughly to remove any grit, especially if using fresh leaves.
Serving Suggestions
This hot spinach and bacon dish is a delightful side that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or as a topping for baked potatoes. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread to soak up the flavors. It also complements breakfast dishes, making it a great addition to a brunch table, or you can enjoy it with a serving of Mom'S Overnight Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes on high until warmed through, stirring halfway. Avoid reheating too long to prevent the spinach from becoming mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Spinach And Bacon contains roughly 196 calories, with 5g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 11g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach; however, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Add it to the dish after cooking the onions, and reduce the cooking time slightly since frozen spinach is already cooked.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you want to make this dish vegetarian, consider using smoked tempeh or a plant-based bacon alternative. These options can provide a similar smoky flavor while keeping the dish meat-free.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add a kick to your hot spinach and bacon, incorporate chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the vinegar and sugar. You can also garnish the finished dish with sliced fresh chili peppers for an extra burst of heat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).